The West Pier is Grade I listed, the only pier to be so, and is historically, architecturally and scientifically unique.
The Pier became a casualty in World War Two - when peace came it was mended and tended and brought back into public use, but essential renovation work wasn't carried out and the pier fell into disrepair. In 1970 the southern end was closed to the public and in 1975 the Pier was shut altogether.
Since then its decline, compounded by neglect and some partial dismantling in the interests of safety, has brought it the sad appearance of a ravaged beauty.The 'West Pier Trust' was created to save the Pier and return it to use, and all efforts are being made to restore, maintain, improve and preserve the pier, including a bid to the Lottery fund